2001 BMW 318 vs. 2004 BMW M3
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 318 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 186 more horse power than 2001 BMW 318. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 79 kg more than 2001 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2004 BMW M3 (350 Nm) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW 318. (200 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 318 | 2004 BMW M3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 318 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 3246 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7400 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1549 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 63 L |
